1. Use the R.I.C.E. Method Immediately After the Injury
Rest, ice, compression and elevation (R.I.C.E.) is a very effective method of relieving pain and preventing further injury when you've first herniated a disk in your neck. Keep your head and neck as still as possible for one to two weeks, using a neck pillow for support if you feel like you need it. Several times a day, put ice packs on your neck to relieve the swelling and inflammation. Apply light to medium pressure to the back of your neck to help relieve the pain, as well. While you're recovering, keep your head and neck elevated above the level of your heart as much as possible. If the herniated disk isn't severe, you'll probably feel a great deal of relief in a couple of weeks.
2. Get a Prescription for Painkillers
You'll be in some pain following your injury, so a painkiller will be a must. If you find that over-the-counter painkillers aren't doing the trick, you'll need to get a prescription for something stronger from your doctor. Most doctors start with a prescription for a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. If that doesn't get rid of the pain within a couple of weeks, you'll probably be prescribed a narcotic or steroid drug.
3. Head Over to Your Physical Therapist
For more serious, persistent pain from herniated disks, physical therapy is the next step. You'll probably go several times a week over a period of weeks or months, working on exercises designed to strengthen your muscles and give your neck more stability. Your physical therapist will give you a list of exercises to perform at home as well. Physical therapy exercises for herniated disks usually involve movements designed to both stretch and strengthen.
4. Consider the Possibility of Surgery
If more conservative treatments don't help your herniated disk pain, you may have to consider surgery. Surgery for a herniated disk in the neck typically involves removing the herniated disk material. Your surgeon will probably make an incision in the front of your neck to do this, though some may prefer to go in through the back of your neck. The incision is small, as it's only made directly over the precise area to be treated. You'll probably be in the hospital for two to three days, and continue a course of physical therapy for several weeks once you leave the hospital. Surgery is a last resort for herniated disks in most cases, but it's highly effective at offering permanent relief from pain in difficult cases.
